Former England manager Gareth Southgate has applied to become the new head coach of Poland’s national team, according to reports.
The 54-year-old stepped down as England manager last July following his side’s defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
Southgate was linked with replacing Erik ten Hag as Manchester United manager in October.
However, he ruled out the prospect of making a quick return to management and made it clear he is in ‘no rush’ to find his next role after his resignation with England.
‘I won’t coach in the next year for sure, I’m certain of that,’ Southgate said in October.
‘I need to give myself time to make good decisions. When you come out of a really big role you need to give your body time, you need to give your mind time.
‘I’m enjoying my life, so there’s no rush. I’m fortunate that there are lots of opportunities presenting themselves.’
According to Polish daily newspaper Przeglad Sportowy, Southgate has now submitted an application to become Poland’s new head coach.
The report adds that Southgate has also ‘personally expressed his desire to take over’ Poland’s national side.
Poland are looking for a new head coach following Michal Probierz’s resignation last week.
The decision came after Robert Lewandowski, Poland’s record goalscorer, said he would not play for his country while Probierz is in charge after he was replaced as captain by Piotr Zielinski.
‘Taking into account the circumstances and a loss of trust in the coach, I have decided to resign from playing for the Poland national team for as long as he remains in charge,’ Lewandowski said in a statement on social media.
‘I hope I will still have another chance to play again for the best fans in the world.’
Probierz opted to step down as Poland’s head coach and said in a statement: ‘I have come to the conclusion that in the current situation the best decision for the good of the national team will be my resignation from the position of coach.
‘Performing this function was the fulfilment of my professional dreams and the greatest honour in my life.’
Probierz was appointed as Poland’s head coach in September 2023 but his side finished bottom of their group at Euro 2024.
Poland, who were beaten 2-1 by Finland in their World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, are due to play the Netherlands on September 4.
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